I'll take you up on the Park Trent story, just looked at the Ningi development and Apartments being offered by them in Melbourne. Ningi offering guaranteed 4.5% rental return for first 2 years, (380p/w) which s not great but will keep the investor out of trouble if thinks don't take. They obviously need to make their money from somewhere though.
Having a look on realestate.com other realestate agents are selling these house and land packages for a similar price (not sure of the rental return guarantees if any)which is encouraging. There is obviously a good profit between development price and Part Trent on sell price
Have also heard about John Cross and court proceedings so a little sceptical at the moment.
Looking forward to your tales

cheers

Greg